The Randolph-Sheppard Act was signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on June 29, 1936. It authorized a legally blind person to have a vending stand in post offices and other federal buildings.

The Business Enterprise Program provides blind and visually impaired clients with the training they need to successfully operate snack bars, cafeterias, and vending facilities.

After concluding their 18-week training program, BBE trainees spend a minimum of 4-10 weeks in "on-the-job" training. Then after passing a licensure exam, they become eligible to compete for vacant facilities.

Subcommittees

The Committee’s bylaws specify the standing subcommittees to represent vendor interests in important issues. There are six subcommittees.

Training, Retraining and Upward Mobility

The Training Subcommittee actively participates with the Division in the development of training and retraining programs for vendors; and sponsors, with the assistance of the Division, meetings and instructional conferences for vendors within the state.